Boy, 17, arrested after historic church burns down

A TEENAGER has been arrested after a historic church was burned down.

Firefighters battled in vain for three hours to save Grade II listed All Saints Church in Fleet, Hants.

Police have arrested a 17-year-old boy from Fleet on suspicion of arson.

The fire broke out at around 5.30pm on Monday and three fire crews battled to save the church, built in 1862.

Sergeant Rob Wallis, from Hampshire Constabulary's Neighbourhood Policing Team in Fleet, said: "The fire has completely destroyed the church and has understandably caused concern within the local community.

"Our officers are in the area providing reassurance to local churches and the community."

Brian Rudman, from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "This was a significant fire that has seriously affected a beautiful and historic building.

"Crews have worked hard in arduous conditions to bring the fire under control.

The fire has completely destroyed the church and has understandably caused concern within the local community.

"Unfortunately the roof of the church has been completely destroyed by the fire but the main structure and brick work remains intact and there is every hope that this church can be rebuilt in the future."

A Church of England Diocese of Guildford, Surrey, spokesperson said: "The news of the fire at All Saints Church in Fleet is alarming.

"Our immediate prayer is that everybody within the vicinity is safe and sound, and for members of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

"The sudden loss of a church building can have a far-reaching effect on a community, beyond those who attend regularly, and so our thoughts and prayers are also with the Vicar and everyone in the congregation and town of Fleet."